Established on November 3, 1977, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal honors outstanding service carried out in a non-combat context on joint assignment with the Department of Defense and of a lesser degree than would warrant the Defense Superior Service Medal. It is the third most prestigious award presented by the Department of Defense. Eligible service usually takes place over a period of at least one year.
In the wake of the September 11 attacks, the Department of Transportation created awards to honor civilians and military personnel who assisted in subsequent relief efforts. The Transportation 9-11 Medal was established in 2002 to honor civilians and military personnel who carried out heroic and courageous acts directly following the September 11 attacks.
In 1998, Congress directed the Secretary of Defense to establish a certificate to honor United States Armed Forces members as well as eligible civilians who contributed honorably to the Cold War effort between September 2, 1945 and December 26, 1991. Those who received the Cold War Recognition Certificate may wish to accompany it with a medal and ribbon, though as an independently created award it is not eligible for wear on military uniforms.
Established on February 4, 1944, the Bronze Star Medal (more commonly known simply as the Bronze Star) honors members of any branch of the United States Armed Forces who demonstrate exceptional or heroic achievement so as to set themselves apart from their peers, though to a lesser degree that what would warrant a Silver Star or the Legion of Merit.
Established on November 6, 1942, the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal honors United States Military personnel who carried out service during World War II in the Pacific Theater between the years of 1941 and 1945. Initially awarded as a service ribbon, the medal version was approved in 1947 with General Douglas MacArthur as its first recipient.
The Army Superior Civilian Service Award Medal honors civilian employees who distinguish themselves through acts of valor or sustained outstanding performance on behalf of the Department of the Army.
Established on July 2, 1926, the Army Soldier’s Medal honors members of the United States Armed Forces who distinguish themselves through heroic acts. Eligible acts do not entail confrontation with hostile forces but typically involve the risking of life or limb on behalf of others. The Soldier’s Medal is the greatest distinction a soldier can earn for exhibiting bravery in circumstances other than combat.
Established on March 3, 1971, the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal recognizes sustained honorable conduct in reservists and is the reserve equivalent of the Good Conduct Medal.
Established on March 3, 1971, the Army National Guard Components Achievement Medal recognizes sustained honorable conduct in reservists and is the reserve equivalent of the Good Conduct Medal.
The second-highest award granted to civilians, the Army Meritorious Civilian Service Award is approved at the MAJCOM level. It is presented to civilian employees of the Army who demonstrate excellence in carrying out their duties for a minimum period of one year, to those who demonstrate notable initiative in improving procedures or protocols, or to those who otherwise contribute to general morale and performance.
